What Happened to Glover Lucas Teixeira?
Glover Teixeira is a Brazilian-American former professional mixed martial artist and former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. After retiring from MMA in January 2023, he transitioned into a prominent coaching role, notably for UFC champion Alex Pereira, and is set to make his professional boxing debut in August 2026.
Quick Answer
Glover Teixeira officially retired from mixed martial arts in January 2023 following his loss to Jamahal Hill at UFC 283, concluding a remarkable career where he became the oldest first-time UFC champion at 42. Since then, he has focused on coaching, guiding fighters like Alex Pereira to UFC championships. As of August 2026, Teixeira is preparing for his professional boxing debut against fellow MMA legend Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua, scheduled for August 29, 2026.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline11 events
Born in Sobrália, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Glover Lucas Teixeira was born in Sobrália, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Moved to the United States
Teixeira moved to the United States, settling in Connecticut, where he began his martial arts journey.
Professional MMA Debut
Glover Teixeira made his professional mixed martial arts debut.
UFC Debut
After a successful career outside the promotion, Teixeira made his highly anticipated UFC debut.
First UFC Title Shot vs. Jon Jones
Teixeira received his first opportunity to fight for the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship against Jon Jones, ultimately losing the bout.
Became UFC Light Heavyweight Champion
At UFC 267, Glover Teixeira submitted Jan Błachowicz in the second round to win the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship, becoming the oldest first-time champion in UFC history at 42 years old.
Lost UFC Light Heavyweight Title to Jiří Procházka
Teixeira lost his title to Jiří Procházka via rear-naked choke in the fifth round at UFC 275 in a highly acclaimed fight.
Retired from MMA after UFC 283 Loss
After losing to Jamahal Hill for the vacant light heavyweight title at UFC 283, Glover Teixeira announced his retirement from mixed martial arts in the Octagon.
Competed in Grappling Match at UFC Fight Pass Invitational 4
Teixeira competed in a professional grappling match against Anthony Smith at UFC Fight Pass Invitational 4, winning by decision.
Continued Coaching Alex Pereira
Following his retirement, Teixeira intensified his coaching role, notably with Alex Pereira, helping him secure UFC championships in two weight classes.
Scheduled Boxing Debut vs. Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua
Glover Teixeira is scheduled to make his professional boxing debut against fellow MMA legend Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua at Spaten Fight Night 3 in São Paulo, Brazil.
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🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Glover Lucas Teixeira, born on October 28, 1979, in Sobrália, Minas Gerais, Brazil, embarked on a unique martial arts journey after moving to the United States in 1999. Initially drawn to boxing, his path shifted dramatically after witnessing Royce Gracie in the early UFC events, inspiring him to pursue Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts. He trained under notable figures like John Hackleman and Chuck Liddell, eventually earning black belts in multiple disciplines and making his professional MMA debut in 2002.
Teixeira built a formidable reputation before joining the UFC in 2012, known for his aggressive, well-rounded style. His UFC tenure included a title shot against Jon Jones in 2014, which he lost. However, his career saw an incredible resurgence in his late 30s and early 40s. A key turning point came on October 30, 2021, at UFC 267, where he submitted Jan Błachowicz via rear-naked choke to capture the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship, becoming the oldest first-time champion in UFC history at 42 years old.
His championship reign was short-lived, as he lost the title in a thrilling 'Fight of the Year' contender against Jiří Procházka at UFC 275 on June 11, 2022, succumbing to a rear-naked choke in the fifth round after a back-and-forth battle. Teixeira then fought for the vacant light heavyweight title against Jamahal Hill at UFC 283 on January 21, 2023. After a grueling five-round contest, he lost by unanimous decision and, in an emotional moment, announced his retirement from mixed martial arts in the Octagon, stating he was 'too tough for my own good' and couldn't 'keep up anymore.'
Following his MMA retirement, Teixeira transitioned seamlessly into a coaching role at his gym, Teixeira MMA & Fitness in Bethel, Connecticut. He became a pivotal figure in the career of Alex Pereira, serving as his head coach and helping him achieve UFC Middleweight and later Light Heavyweight championship status. Teixeira also competed in a professional grappling match, winning by decision against Anthony Smith at UFC Fight Pass Invitational 4 on June 29, 2023.
As of August 28, 2026, Glover Teixeira is preparing for his professional boxing debut. He is scheduled to face fellow former UFC champion Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua on August 29, 2026, at Spaten Fight Night 3 in São Paulo, Brazil. This event marks a new chapter in Teixeira's combat sports career, showcasing his continued dedication to competition outside of MMA.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Glover Lucas Teixeira made different choices?